Things to Do to Get Home Ready to Rent

Written by natasha puryear

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Many property owners try to get a home ready to rent as quickly as possible. You should consider a few things before putting a house on the market for rent for the first time. Keep in mind that renting out your home can be a time-consuming and frustrating process. Make sure to treat your rental property like any other business or, according to MSN Real Estate, your real estate venture will not work. Before you decide to break out your home, be sure that holding onto the property is in your family's best interest.

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Clean

No matter how clean your last tenants or your family left the property, there is always room for improvement. Hire professional cleaners to come in and clean the home from top to bottom. Professional cleaners do not only clean what you normally think of, such as floors and counters; they also take the time to clean walls, window blinds and crown mouldings. Once your professional cleaners have completely cleaned the home, consider hiring a carpet cleaning company to deep shampoo the carpets in the home. Ensure that the insides of appliances and cabinets have been completely cleaned out. Also, remember to remove any items that were stored on the top shelves of closets, in the attic or in the garage.

Repair

Repair any damage you find to the home. This should include repairing any appliances that come with the rental, along with any structural or cosmetic damages. A home with no damage can rent for significantly more than a home that needs many repairs. If you are not confident in your ability to repair any of the damages, hire a professional. Keep in mind that you will have to perform the ongoing repairs as long as you continue to rent out the home. Not repairing some items can lead to tenants suing for violation of your rental contract.

Upgrade

Upgrading appliances and other convenience features in the home can lead to a higher rental rate. Renters may be willing to spend more money on rent if they know that the appliances are energy efficient and therefore will not cost as much in electricity or water. Upgrading an outdoor deck or interior features such as cabinets for bathrooms may also raise the rental rate you may ask for. Many upgraded items also come with warranties that will keep you from having to repair an item should something happen.

Landscape

Clean up the landscaping around the home. Trim back bushes and trees and consider planting flowers along the walkways. Curb appeal is not only important for people looking to buy but also renters. If you spend a good deal of money on landscaping, you may consider an addendum to your lease that requires your renters to care for the yard. If you plan to hire gardeners or grounds crews to take care of the yard, make sure that the home's rental rate includes those costs.